Recruiter Outreach Templates: InMails & Emails That Get Responses (2026)

Hi [First Name],

I came across your profile while researching [specific skill/background] and was impressed by your work at [current company] — especially [specific project, achievement, or post].

I'm reaching out because [Company] is [brief compelling description — what they do, stage, why it's interesting]. We're hiring a [Role] to [key responsibility], and your background in [relevant experience] stood out.

Not sure if you're open to exploring, but would you be up for a 15-minute call to learn more? Happy to share details on team, scope, and comp.

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

Your [GitHub contributions to X / blog post on Y / work on Z] caught my attention — it's clear you know [specific technology] deeply.

[Company] is building [brief technical description — what the product does and why it's interesting technically]. We're looking for a [Role] to [specific technical challenge or responsibility].

Stack: [relevant technologies]
Team: [size and structure]
Comp: [range if possible]

Any interest in a quick call to learn more?

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

I've been following [Company's / your] work in [industry/area] — your leadership in [specific achievement or initiative] particularly stood out.

I'm reaching out on behalf of [Company], a [brief description — stage, what they do, why notable]. They're seeking a [Role] to [key strategic responsibility].

This is a [board/CEO-level] search, and given your background in [relevant experience], I thought it worth connecting.

Would you be open to a confidential conversation to explore fit?

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

[Company] is [one sentence on what they do] — we're [stage: seed/Series A/B] backed by [notable investors if applicable].

I noticed your experience building [relevant experience] at [current/previous company]. We're looking for someone to [specific role scope] as we [specific growth milestone].

It's early stage (with the risk and upside that comes with it), but the founding team is [credibility: ex-Google/serial founders/domain experts], and the equity is meaningful.

Interested in learning more?

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

I noticed you've been at [current company] for [X years] building [what they've been doing]. Impressive trajectory.

I'm reaching out because [Company] has a [Role] that could be an interesting next step — it's a chance to [specific growth opportunity: lead a team, own a P&L, expand scope, etc.].

[One sentence on company and why it's compelling]

Would you be open to a quick call to explore? No pressure — just want to share what we're building.

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

[Mutual connection] mentioned you as someone who really knows [specific area] — after looking at your background, I can see why.

I'm working with [Company] on a [Role] search, and your experience with [relevant skill] is exactly what they're looking for.

I know you're likely not actively looking, but would you be open to a quick conversation? Happy to share details — even if the timing isn't right, I'd value your perspective.

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

We're both connected to [mutual connection] — I see you worked together at [company].

I'm reaching out because [Company] is hiring a [Role], and your background in [relevant area] caught my attention. [One sentence on the opportunity].

Would you be open to a brief call to learn more?

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

We spoke [timeframe] ago about a [role type] opportunity at [previous company]. At the time, the timing wasn't right — but you made a strong impression, and I wanted to reconnect.

I'm now working with [Company] on a [Role] that made me think of you immediately. [Brief compelling description of opportunity].

Any interest in catching up?

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

I came across your post on [topic] and found it really insightful — especially [specific point they made].

It got me thinking about [Company], which is tackling [related challenge]. We're hiring a [Role] to [responsibility that connects to their content].

Given your perspective on [topic], I thought you might find it interesting. Would you be open to a quick call?

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

Following up on my note from last week. I know you're busy — wanted to share one more thing that might be relevant.

[Add new information: recent company news, team growth, specific project they'd work on, or a piece of content they might find interesting]

Still happy to jump on a quick call if you're curious. If not, no worries at all.

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

Last note from me on this. I wanted to reach out once more about the [Role] at [Company] — [one sentence reminder of why it's compelling].

If you're not interested or the timing's off, I completely understand. But if there's even a small chance you'd want to learn more, I'd love to connect.

Either way, wishing you the best.

[Your name]

Great to hear from you, [First Name]!

A few times that work for a call:
- [Option 1]
- [Option 2]
- [Option 3]

Or feel free to grab a time directly: [Calendly link]

Looking forward to connecting.

[Your name]

Completely understand, [First Name]. Timing is everything.

I'll keep your info on file and reach back out if something that's a better fit comes along. In the meantime, feel free to reach out if your situation changes.

Best of luck with [current project/company].

[Your name]

Subject: [Role] at [Company] — your [specific skill] stood out

Hi [First Name],

I found your profile while researching [skill/background area] and was impressed by your work at [company] — especially [specific achievement].

I'm reaching out because [Company] is hiring a [Role] to [key responsibility]. [One sentence on why the company is interesting].

Comp: [range if you can share]
Team: [brief description]

Worth a quick call to explore?

[Your name]
[Your title, Company]

Subject: Quick question, [First Name]

Hi [First Name],

Saw your work on [specific project/achievement] — impressive.

I'm curious: would you ever consider a role where you could [specific appealing aspect of the job: lead a team, work on X problem, have Y scope]?

If there's any chance, I'd love to share what we're building at [Company]. If not, no worries.

[Your name]

Subject: Following up (different channel)

Hi [First Name],

I reached out on LinkedIn last week about the [Role] at [Company] — wanted to try email in case LinkedIn messages get lost.

Quick recap: [One sentence on opportunity and why you reached out to them]

Happy to share more if there's any interest. If not, I'll leave you alone!

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

Hope you're doing well. Came across this [article/report/resource] on [topic] and thought of you given your work in [area].

[Link]

No ask here — just thought you'd find it interesting.

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

It's been [timeframe] since we chatted about [previous opportunity]. Wanted to check in and see how things are going at [current company].

No specific role I'm reaching out about — just wanted to stay connected. If your situation ever changes and you're curious about what's out there, happy to chat.

[Your name]

Hi [First Name],

I saw [their company] just [trigger event: layoffs, acquisition, leadership change, etc.]. Wanted to reach out in case you're evaluating options.

I'm working with [Company] on a [Role] that I think could be a great fit for you. [Brief description of opportunity].

If you're open to talking, I'd love to connect. If the timing's still not right, I understand.

[Your name]